"The Decision Was Not the Best" – Ruben Amorim Calls Out Manchester United Star After Europa League Draw
Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim was not pleased with one player's decision-making during their 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad in the Europa League.
Manchester United were in action on Thursday night as they faced Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 clash. The match, played in front of a lively crowd at the Anoeta Stadium, ended in a 1-1 draw.
United took the lead in the 57th minute thanks to a goal from Joshua Zirkzee. However, this advantage did not last long. Shortly after, captain Bruno Fernandes received a handball penalty inside the box. Real Sociedad’s Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted the ensuing penalty, tying the game and setting up a tight second leg at Old Trafford next week.
After the match, United boss Ruben Amorim was asked about a key moment involving right-back Diogo Dalot. In one attack, Dalot had possession in a great position on the right side of the pitch. Rasmus Højlund was making a smart run into the box, ready for a potential one-on-one chance against the goalkeeper. However, instead of delivering the cross, Dalot hesitated, cut back inside, and passed the ball elsewhere. The opportunity was lost, and the move broke down.
Amorim didn’t hold back in his assessment, simply stating: “The decision was not the best.”
The Portuguese coach reflected on the team’s overall display, admitting that United performed well until the penalty incident changed the flow of the game.
“I think we played well until the penalty. But then the penalty, I think, changed a little bit the momentum of the game. I felt the team were a little bit tired in the last 20 minutes, and that also helped them take control of the game.”
Despite the setback, Amorim still found positives in the team’s attacking play.
“We are creating chances. Sometimes you don’t see it in the xG because we manage not to shoot, but the great opportunity is there. We have transitions, we have situations, and sometimes we are missing something.”
United will now turn their attention back to the Premier League after the first match ended in a draw. They have a major test this weekend at Old Trafford against Arsenal. The game will be critical for United’s season, as they hope to recover and continue their pursuit of a top-four finish.
